Stricter Guidelines, Faster Processing, and New Compliance Measures Rolled Out

Valletta, July 1, 2025 The Government of Malta, through the Expatriates Unit and the Central Visa Unit (CVU) of Identità, has issued an official communication detailing key updates to the student visa and residence permit process, which will come into effect from 1st August 2025. The new measures are aimed at improving application accuracy, reducing delays, and enhancing oversight of international students residing in Malta.

Key Changes Announced:

1. Mandatory Format for Student Acceptance Letters

From August 2025, all student acceptance letters must follow a standardized format. The letter must include the full institution name (as registered with MFHEA), complete course title, MQF level and total ECTS credits, course duration and study mode (full-time/part-time), details of scheduled breaks (such as Easter and Summer), weekly contact hours, and the full lecture address. Applications submitted with letters not meeting these requirements will not be accepted for visa or residence permit processing.

2. Revised Visa Application Timelines

The Central Visa Unit (CVU) has introduced stricter timelines for visa submissions. Students must apply for a visa no earlier than 6 months and no later than 9 weeks before the course start date. Any application submitted within 9 weeks of the course commencement will be automatically rejected. Additionally, passports must be valid for at least 10 months at the time of application.

3. Updated Visa Checklist Released

To reduce the number of rejections due to incomplete or incorrect documents, CVU has published an updated visa application checklist. This checklist clearly outlines requirements related to financial proof, accommodation documentation, and the use of certified translators for foreign-language documents. The revised checklist is available on the official Identità website.

4. New Policy for Missing Documents

A single-review policy has been introduced to speed up the documentation process. If an application is missing documents, the applicant (or the institution) will be contacted once. The required documents must be submitted within five working days. Failure to provide them within this period will result in the rejection of the application.

5. Monthly Attendance Reporting Now Compulsory

All educational institutions in Malta must now report the monthly attendance of non-EU international students. Excused absences, such as for medical reasons or official leave, must be reported separately. Poor attendance may negatively impact a student’s residence status and could lead to further immigration consequences.

6. Proposed English Language Requirement for Higher-Level Courses

Identità has proposed a new requirement for students applying to MQF Level 5 or higher programs to submit proof of English language proficiency at a B2 level under the CEFR framework. Accepted certifications include IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge English exams. This proposal is currently under public consultation, and feedback can be submitted through an official form by 1st August 2025.

These reforms are expected to significantly impact application preparation and timelines. Institutions are advised to update their admission protocols, while students and education consultants must ensure all documentation is compliant well in advance.

For full guidelines and submission formats, visit the official Identità portal.